Meet Cristi Martin, creator of Felix & Jayne
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
the awesomeness: clutches, rings, cuffs, headbands, barrettes & necklaces!
*how did you come up with the name Felix&Jayne?
Jayne is my middle name and even though I'm the only person in my company I liked the idea of being part of a team, someone to celebrate with when things are good or someone to blame when things are bad, so that's where Felix came in.
*Can you tell us a little about your background and what compelled you to start a craft business?
I've always been a crafter but while in college I thought I wanted to be an artist with a capital A. I got my degree in painting but with no clear plan for how to make a living as a painter, I ended up working a few clerical jobs. I was working for a doctor when I started the business and couldn't see myself making a long term commitment to the job. As my business began to grow I found it difficult to balance both and began to pursue turning Felix & Jayne into a full time business. In October it will be 2 years since I quite working at the doctors office and although it has been a lot of hard work I wouldn't change anything.
*Where does your inspiration come from?
For me inspiration comes from the creative process itself. A lot of my process depends on my mood, when I'm screen printing or sewing the design on the bag, mostly I just go. I don't really think about what I'm doing, I just do it. If I can't make something work I'll put it away and cut out new bags or iron interfacing.
*2 favorite websites?
Design Sponge
colormekatie.blogspot.com
*What’s next for Felix&Jayne?
Conquering the craft fair season
*Any tips or advice for anyone starting their own craft business?
Sign up for the JoAnn sales newsletter and invest in a good coffee maker.
* 5 random facts about you!
**I would watch infomercials all day if I could, especially the ones featuring knives or cleaning products. You never know when you're going to need to cut a cement block in half with a kitchen knife.
**I hate when people take photos of me while I'm eating.
**I absolutely love clogging, its by far my favorite style of dance.
**I've never eaten shrimp. Ever.
**I believe that a couple should sit on opposite sides of a booth. I'm pretty firm on this.
You can find Felix & Jayne at The Felt Bird!!
Wanna know more about F&J?
BLOG: CLICK HERE
MYSPACE: CLICK HERE
TWITTER: CLICK HERE
SHOP: CLICK HERE
Thanks Cristi!!
